I return to teaching this week, so while technically summer just started, for me it is no longer summer vacation mode. On the bright side, summer is pretty sleepy around campus, even when classes are going on. It is nothing like fall semester which is pretty crazy. Thus, I’ll be easing back into the daily work of grading papers, conducting class, and working on new ideas for next semester.
I always feel like I have to accomplish something when I have a chunk of time off from school, and for the most part, I think I did during my break:
- I crocheted another blanket for my crazy dogs, and so far, it is getting the puppy thumbs up.
- I went on a short cruise to the Bahamas and made my mom happy for a few days, and I learned that I’m not a cruise kind of gal.
- I manage to get a few books read: Shanghai Girls, Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, Reading Lolita in Tehran: A Memoir in Books
, and I’m close to finishing The True History of Paradise: A Novel
.
- I created a series of jewelry making kits, all earrings, and so far have variations of 3 (tutorial only, supplies only, and full kit including supplies & tutorial) listed in my Etsy shop. In fact, my shop had literally about 3 things listed around early May, and now not only have I increased my listings to 49, but I have re-shot tons of photos, gotten a new banner, and generally have it in much better shape.
- Sparkling Star Wire Earrings Jewelry Kit
June 25, 2010 at 7:09 am
I *always* have to make time for reading. It’s probably the English professor in me, or else it’s why I became one in the first place 😉 Snowflower was one of the seriously best books I’ve read in a long time. If you have a chance, try to fit in The Elegance of the Hedgehog. It’s amazing!
June 25, 2010 at 8:01 am
I read all the time, but I don’t get to read for pleasure, as in just to read because I want to read something. It kind of reminds me of making jewelry. 99% of the time, I make something because it’s a project that I will write about. The same goes for reading. I’m often reading something for utilitarian purposes, not because it is just fun. However, I hope to change that. Even if I just squeeze in 1/2 hour a day with my butt on the couch and a book in my hand!
I’ll check out the title you suggested. Definitely take a look at Reading Lolita. I keep meaning to write a review of it, but anyone who loves literature will love this book!
June 25, 2010 at 8:23 am
My hubby is begging me to go on a cruise but I don’t think I will be much of a cruise gal either… I am just waiting for him to do all of the footwork to plan a vacation; this way, I know it will never happen! LOL
I gave up on having time to read for fun a long time ago, but then I discovered the free Kindle app for my I-touch, I now carry books with me wherever I go and have enjoyed many books already this summer! 🙂
June 25, 2010 at 12:28 pm
We’ve gone off on a great tangent here. I hardly ever get to read for pleasure either.
The lack of time is compounded by dyslexia – making reading a chore. This is amazing to me – and I haven’t heard an explanation yet – but I find I read much easier/faster with a Kindle. I’ve heard others say this too.
Do either of you profs have an explanation?
Now I hear the Kindle will be replaced soon by more advanced technology. I’m just hoping they retain whatever it is that has finally made reading a pleasure for me.
June 25, 2010 at 1:22 pm
That is interesting Eileen because I really struggle with reading on a screen. I have seen a kindle & love the idea of being able to carry around lots of books in one little pad, especially since as a teacher I’m lugging around a crap load of books all the time! However, I just don’t see myself replacing my hardcopy book w/a digital device.
When I read for “work” purposes, I have to write in the book. I underline, highlight, write notes. I know you can do this in a Kindle too, but it’s the writing that helps me remember, and later, I can whip it open and find what I need pretty quickly. In fact, I have had to make myself stop doing all this writing when reading for pleasure (it’s hard because I have been a student for so many years); otherwise, it takes me forever to get through a book!
I wish I knew the answer to your question. I googled “dyslexia and reading on a kindle” and a bunch of stuff popped up. One article said it could have to do with the fact that you can alter the spacing and font size on them.
Whatever the reason, that is wonderful that you have found something that works for you!